Discover how Cambridge Spark helps organisations build the data and AI capabilities needed to deliver measurable business impact: cambridgespark.com

In this episode of Data & AI Mastery, host Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma is joined by Conny Ploth, VP of Global AI Transformation in the financial services sector, to unpack what it really takes to deliver measurable, people-first AI transformation in complex, regulated organisations.

Conny brings a unique perspective shaped by a career spanning microfinance, consulting, ESG, and large-scale financial institutions. Her message is clear: if you can’t measure it, don’t start it and AI transformation only succeeds when data, people, and processes move together.

Together, they explore how leaders can move beyond AI hype and focus on impact, adoption, and sustainable value creation.

Listeners will learn why measurement and baselines are non-negotiable before starting any AI initiative, how to balance quick wins (task automation) with longer-term transformational bets and how legacy organisations can compete with AI-native startups by creating safe spaces for experimentation.

This episode is packed with practical guidance for CIOs, transformation leaders, and executives who want AI to deliver real outcomes — not just prototypes.

Be sure to follow Data & AI Mastery wherever you listen to your podcasts to never miss an episode.

Chapter Markers:

(01:40) — Conny Ploth’s career journey into AI leadership

(06:00) — The three AI value levers: efficiency, growth, experience

(10:50) — Governance, guardrails, and balancing access with protection

(14:30) — Setting the AI vision and aligning with business strategy

(18:40) — Identifying quick wins vs long-term strategic initiatives

(24:00) — Running AI as a portfolio of initiatives

(28:00) — Upskilling at scale: why experience beats traditional training

(33:50) — Quick-fire round: fitness, routines, and personal habits

(35:40) — Raoul’s closing reflections: people, process, and purpose

Useful Links:

Connect with Conny on LinkedIn

Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn

Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programmes at cambridgespark.com